This novel is a framed narrative. The framing story involves an unknown male narrator who spent a winter in Stackfield in the business district.

He found a walking, quiet person around the village, his demeanor and carriage stood out.

This is Ethan Frome, a resident of his life and a local resident of the community.

The narrator described Fromm as "Starkfield's most eye-catching character", "a man's ruin".

Although he checked the bumps of the chain, his expression was "careless and powerful..." .

The curious narrator set out to get to know him. He learned that Frome's from line originated from a "destruction" 24 years ago.

He was injured, but without further details, the narrator could not learn more from Frome's compatriots.

It's not just Essen's higher education attempt. Decades ago, his father suddenly fell ill due to an injury, which frustrated him.